Saturday, April 19, 2014

MLB Instant Replay Review 115: Tim Welke (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned HP Umpire Tim Welke's out (Rule 7.13 violation no-call) in the bottom of the 3rd inning of the Phillies-Rockies game. With none out and one on, Rockies batter DJ LeMahieu hit a 0-1 sinker from Phillies pitcher Kyle Kendrick on the ground to left fielder Domonic Brown, who threw to second baseman Chase Utley to catcher Carlos Ruiz as Rockies R1 Nolan Arenado arrived at home plate. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Rockies Manager Walt Weiss and initiation by Crew Chief Welke, Welke's ruling that Ruiz did not violate Rule 7.13 in not blocking access to home plate without the baseball was reversed, the call was incorrect.* At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0.

This is Tim Welke (3)'s first Instant Replay Review of the 2014 Regular Season.
Tim Welke is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Tim Welke's crew is now 6/7 (.857 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
*This is the first Rule 7.13 violation of the 2014 MLB Regular Season (also first via Replay Review).

This is the 115th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Rockies Manager Walt Weiss is now 2/4 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 69/115 (.600 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Philadelphia Phillies vs. Colorado Rockies, 4/19/14
Video: Play overturned; Replay gives Colorado the first run of the game on Rule 7.13 violation call (COL)

MLB Instant Replay Review 114: Mike Winters (03)

Instant Replay Review confirmed HP Umpire Mike Winters' ball (record keeping, count) call in the top of the 8th inning of the Astros-Athletics game. With two out and none on, Astros batter Jesus Guzman took a 0-2 fastball from A's pitcher Scott Kazmir for a called first ball. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Athletics Manager Bob Melvin and initiation by Crew Chief Mike Winters, Winters' ruling that the 0-2 pitch to Guzman resulted in a ball one call was affirmed, the call was correct. The call is now incorrect.* At the time of the review, the Astros were leading, 3-1. The Athletics ultimately won the contest, 4-3.

This is Mike Winters (33)'s third Instant Replay Review of the 2014 Regular Season.
Mike Winters is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Mike Winters' crew is now 5/10 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
*The Original Ruling was reversed in a 4-3-0 decision by the UEFL Appeals Board.

This is the 114th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Athletics Manager Bob Melvin is now 1/10 (.100 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 69/114 (.605 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Houston Astros vs. Oakland Athletics, 4/19/14

MLB Instant Replay Review 113: Ted Barrett (02)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Ted Barrett's out call in the top of the 6th inning of the Orioles-Red Sox game. With two out and two on, Orioles batter Nelson Cruz hit a 2-2 changeup from Red Sox pitcher Felix Doubront on the ground to third baseman Brock Holt, who threw to first baseman Mike Napoli as Cruz arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Orioles Manager Buck Showalter, Barrett's ruling that Napoli caught the ball and tagged first base ahead of Cruz's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Red Sox were leading, 2-1. The Red Sox ultimately won the contest, 4-2.

This is Ted Barrett (65)'s second Instant Replay Review of the 2014 Regular Season.
Ted Barrett is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Ted Barrett's crew is now 3/8 (.375 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 113th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Orioles Manager Buck Showalter is now 1/1 (1.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 68/113 (.602 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Baltimore Orioles vs. Boston Red Sox, 4/19/14

MLB Instant Replay Reviews 111|112: Davis, Wolcott (3, 5)

Instant Replay Review overturned 3B Umpire Gerry Davis' and 2B Umpire Quinn Wolcott's out call in the bottom of the 3rd and top of the 4th innings, respectively, of the Angels-Tigers game. In the 3rd, with none out and two on, Tigers batter Torii Hunter hit a 2-1 fastball from Angels pitcher CJ Wilson in the air to center fielder Mike Trout, who caught the fly ball and threw to third baseman Ian Stewart as Tigers baserunner R2 Miguel Cabrera arrived at third base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Tigers Manager Brad Ausmus, Davis' ruling that Stewart tagged Cabrera prior to his arrival and while off base was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Tigers were leading, 2-1.

In the 4th, with two out and two on, Angels baserunner R1 Stewart attempted to steal second base off Tigers pitcher Max Scherzer and catcher Bryan Holaday, who threw to shortstop Andrew Romine as Stewart arrived at second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Angels Manager Mike Scioscia, Wolcott's ruling that Romine caught the ball and tagged Stewart prior to his arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Tigers were leading, 3-1. The Tigers ultimately won the contest, 5-2.

This is Gerry Davis (12)'s third Instant Replay Review of 2014.
This is Quinn Wolcott (81)'s fifth Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Gerry Davis is now 0/3 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Quinn Wolcott is now 3/5 (.800 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Gerry Davis' crew is now 6/13 (.462 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

These are the 111th and 112th Instant Replay Reviews of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Tigers Manager Brad Ausmus is now 3/5 (.800 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Angels Manager Mike Scioscia is now 2/3 (.667 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 68/112 (.607 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. Detroit Tigers, 4/19/14

Baseball Rules Series: Replay's New Normal (Fourth Out)

MLB's Instant Replay Review introduced a new fourth out to the game, a false fourth out of sorts, as exemplified during the Braves-Mets game Friday night. The Rays, for instance, ran "fourth out" drills during Spring Training practices, but this marks the first false fourth out situation to arise during a regular season affair.

Umpires Hoberg, Wegner, Hallion & Cooper.
With two out and one on in the bottom of the second inning, Mets batter Travis d'Arnaud hit a 3-2 slider from then-no-hitter hopeful Braves pitcher Aaron Harang on the ground to second baseman Dan Uggla, who threw to first baseman Freddie Freeman as d'Arnaud arrived at first base, ruled out by 1B Umpire Eric Cooper. Sensing a challengeable play at first, F3 Freeman quickly wheeled and fired the ball to third base, where F5 Chris Johnson and Mets baserunner R1 Lucas Duda converged upon the hot corner, Duda tagged while off the base for a potential fourth out, as ruled by 3B Umpire Pat Hoberg.

After the play, Mets Manager Terry Collins visited Cooper to discuss the close play at first base and to consider using his challenge; however, as Hoberg mechanized, Duda was the "fourth out" at third base and, had Collins challenged and the out call at first been overturned via Replay Review, Duda would have become the official third out of the inning attempting to advance to third base.

The challenge, however, would have the very real-world effect of breaking up Harang's no-hit bid.

Replay Review-inspired fourth out situations join the already-in-existence appeal play fourth out in which an appeal on a baserunner made after the "third out" of the inning is recorded will have the effect of superseding the real-time third out and instead become the official third out. For instance, with one out, R2 and R3, B1 hits a line drive caught on the fly by F1. R2 and R3 were running on contact and have no hope of getting back to their bases to tag. Seeing this, F1 casually throws the ball to F6, who slowly strolls over and tags second base for the third out of the inning (R2 retired). R3, however, never stopped running and touched home plate prior to F6's touch of second base. If the defensive team appeals R3's violation at third base, R3 becomes the third out of the inning in order to cancel the score. If the defense doesn't appeal R3's violation, R3's run counts. This situation occurred during a Dodgers-Diamondbacks game and is documented in the UEFL Series: Baseball Rules in the Real World (Fourth Out).

Wrap: Atlanta Braves vs. New York Mets, 4/18/14
Video: With two out, after a close play at first, 1B Freddie Freeman gets a fourth out just in case (ATL)

Friday, April 18, 2014

MLB Instant Replay Review 110: Lance Barrett (03)

Instant Replay Review overturned 3B Umpire Lance Barrett's safe call in the bottom of the 9th inning of the Mariners-Marlins game. With none out and two on, Marlins batter Marcell Ozuna hit a 3-1 fastball from Mariners pitcher Yoervis Medina on the ground back to Medina, who threw to third baseman Kyle Seager as Marlins baserunner R3 Reed Johnson arrived at third base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Marlins Manager Mike Redmond, Barrett's ruling that Seager legally caught the ball and tagged third base prior to Johnson's arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 4-4. The Marlins ultimately won the contest, 8-4.

This is Lance Barrett (94)'s third Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Lance Barrett is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Dana DeMuth's crew is now 4/6 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 110th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Marlins Manager Mike Redmond is now 2/6 (.333 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 68/110 (.618 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Seattle Mariners vs. Miami Marlins (Interleague Baseball), 4/18/14
Video: Play overturned; Catch/transfer rule interpretation is called into question again on force at third (MIA)

MLB Ejection 011: Joe West (1; Cesar Cabral)

HP Umpire Joe West ejected Yankees pitcher Cesar Cabral for throwing at Rays batter Logan Forsythe in the bottom of the 8th inning of the Yankees-Rays game. With two out and two on, Forsythe took a 0-0 fastball from Cabral for a hit by pitch. Replays indicate the pitch was located off the inner edge of home plate and shoulder high, coming into contact with Forsythe's upper left arm as he attempted to avoid being hit by the pitched ball, the call was irrecusable. It was Cabral's third hit batsman in four batters. At the time of the ejection, the Rays were leading, 11-3. The Rays ultimately won the contest, 11-3.

This is Joe West (22)'s first ejection of the 2014 MLB Season.
Joe West now has 2 points in the UEFL Standings (0 Previous + 2 MLB + 0 Irrecusable = 2).
Crew Chief Joe West now has 2 points in the UEFL's Crew Division (1 Prev + 1 Irrecusable = 2).
Prop Prediction 1-5: Date of First Ejection for Throwing At/Fighting; Winner: toss 'em (4/19/14).

This is the 11th ejection of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 6th player ejection of 2014. Prior to ejection, Cabral's line was 0.0 IP, 3 R, H, 3 HBP.
This is the Yankees' 1st ejection of 2014, T-1st in the AL East (BOS, NYY 1; BAL, TB, TOR 0).
This is Cesar Cabral's first career MLB ejection.
This is Joe West's first ejection since September 13, 2013 (Matt Garza; QOC = U).

Wrap: New York Yankees vs. Tampa Bay Rays, 4/18/14
Video: Cabral drills three batters without an out to his name, drawing Cowboy Joe's ejection (NYY)

MLB Instant Replay Review 108: Phil Cuzzi (02)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Phil Cuzzi's no HR (ball in play) call in the top of the 4th inning of the Angels-Tigers game. With two out and one on, Angels batter Howie Kendrick hit a 1-0 fastball from Tigers pitcher Luke Putkonen on a line drive to deep right-center field and off the top of the wall area. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Angels Manager Mike Scioscia and initiation by Crew Chief Gerry Davis, Cuzzi's ruling that the ball hit the top of the outfield fence and remained in play was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Angels were leading, 7-1.

This is Phil Cuzzi (10)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Phil Cuzzi is now 1/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Gerry Davis' crew is now 6/11 (.606 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 108th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Angels Manager Mike Scioscia is now 1/2 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 68/108 (.630 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. Detroit Tigers, 4/18/14
Video: Play overturned; Replay officials determine Kendrick's deep drive exited the field of play for a HR (LAA)

MLB Replay Reviews 107|109: Little, Carlson (1, 2)

Instant Replay Review upheld 3B Umpire Will Little's fair ball in outfield call in the top of the 1st and overturned 1B Umpire Mark Carlson's out call in the bottom of the 8th inning of the Orioles-Red Sox game. In the 1st, with none out and none on, to lead off the game, Orioles batter Nick Markakis hit a 0-0 fastball from Red Sox pitcher John Lackey on a line drive toward the left field line and into the corner for a double. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Red Sox Manager John Farrell, Little's ruling that the ball landed and first touched the ground in fair territory was upheld, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0.

In the 8th, with none out and none on, Red Sox batter Brock Holt hit a 1-2 breaking ball from pitcher Brian Matusz on the ground to second baseman Steve Lombardozzi who threw to first baseman Chris Davis as Holt arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Red Sox Manager Farrell and initiation by Crew Chief Ted Barrett, Carlson's ruling that Davis caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Holt's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Orioles were leading, 7-4. The Orioles ultimately won the contest, 8-4.

This is Will Little (93)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
This is Mark Carlson (6)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Will Little is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Mark Carlson is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Ted Barrett's crew is now 3/7 (.429 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

These are the 107th and 109th Instant Replay Reviews of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Red Sox Manager John Farrell is now 1/4 (.250 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 68/107 (.636 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Baltimore Orioles vs. Boston Red Sox, 4/18/14
Video: Play stands; Markakis' lined shot on Lackey's first pitch of the game hits the foul line (BOS)
Video: Play overturned; Umpires initiate Crew Chief Review to reverse late out call (BOS)

MLB Instant Replay 106: Marty Foster (02)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Marty Foster's out call in the top of the 2nd inning of the Yankees-Rays game. With none out and one on, Yankees batter Ichiro Suzuki bunted a 0-0 fastball from Rays pitcher Erik Bedard on the ground to third baseman Evan Longoria, who threw to first baseman James Loney as Ichiro arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Yankees Manager Joe Girardi, Foster's ruling that Loney caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Ichiro's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Yankees were leading, 3-0.

This is Marty Foster (60)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Marty Foster is now 0/2 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Joe West's crew is now 3/6 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 106th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Yankees Manager Joe Girardi is now 3/6 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 67/106 (.632 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: New York Yankees vs. Tampa Bay Rays, 4/18/14

Thursday, April 17, 2014

Major League Umpiring Debut: Ben May (97)

Umpire Ben May made his MLB debut during the Blue Jays-Twins doubleheader in Minnesota on April 17. May joined chief Tom Hallion's crew, serving as Thursday afternoon's third base umpire during Game 1 alongside 2B Umpire Hallion, 1B Umpire Eric Cooper and home plate umpire Chris Guccione. May rotated to the second base position with Pat Hoberg behind home plate for Game 2.
(AP Photo/Matt York)

May is on the International League umpire roster for the 2014 season, which is his 3rd season in the IL and AAA. May began his career in Minor League Baseball in 2007's Gulf Coast League and worked the New York-Penn, Midwest, Florida State, Eastern and Puerto Rican Winter Leagues before his promotion to Triple-A. He worked the 2011 All-Star Futures Game in Phoenix, 2012 Arizona Fall League (and 2012 AFL Rising Stars Game) and 2013 World Baseball Classic Qualifying in Germany.

May was born and resides in Racine, Wisconsin and wears the sleeve uniform number 97, last worn by Todd Tichenor, at the Major League level. The 6-foot , 200-pound May, who makes his MLB debut at the age of 32, is an alum of St. Catherine's in Racine.

MLB Instant Replay Review 105: Jim Reynolds (04)

Instant Replay Review upheld 2B Umpire Jim Reynolds' out call in the bottom of the 7th inning of the Brewers-Pirates game. With one out and two on, Pirates baserunner R1 Pedro Alvarez attempted to steal second base on a 1-1 slider from Brewers pitcher Zach Duke to catcher Jonathan Lucroy, who threw to second baseman Scooter Gennett as Alvarez arrived at second base, R3 Andrew McCutchen to third. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle, Reynolds' ruling that Gennett caught the ball and tagged Alvarez prior to his arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Pirates were leading, 5-2. The Pirates ultimately won the contest, 11-2.

This is Jim Reynolds (77)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Tripp Gibson is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Fieldin Culbreth's crew is now 5/5 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 105th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle is now 3/6 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 67/105 (.638 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Milwaukee Brewers vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 4/17/14
Video: Play stands; Pirates challenge a stolen base attempt in the 7th, call stands as an out (PIT)

MLB Instant Replay Review 104: Tripp Gibson (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Tripp Gibson's safe call in the bottom of the 2nd inning of the Royals-Astros game. With two out and none on, Astros batter Alex Presley hit a 2-1 fastball from Royals pitcher James Shields on the ground to second baseman Omar Infante, who threw to first baseman Eric Hosmer as Presley arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Royals Manager Ned Yost, Gibson's ruling that Hosmer did not catch the ball and tag first base prior to Presley's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Royals were leading, 2-0. The Royals ultimately won the contest, 5-1.

This is Tripp Gibson (73)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Tripp Gibson is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Dale Scott's crew is now 1/4 (.250 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 104th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Royals Manager Ned Yost is now 2/4 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 66/104 (.635 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Kansas City Royals vs. Houston Astros, 4/17/14
Video: Play overturned; Royals end the inning using a challenge on play at first base (KC)

MLB Ejection 010: Lance Barrett (1; Jason Kipnis)

HP Umpire Lance Barrett ejected Indians 2B Jason Kipnis for arguing a strike one call in the top of the 3rd inning of the Indians-Tigers game. With two out and three on, Kipnis took a 0-0 fastball from Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander for a called first strike before fouling off a 0-1 curveball and swinging and missing at a 0-2 curveball in the dirt for strike three. Replays indicate the pitch called strike one was located over the heart of home plate and knee high (px 0.058, pz 1.694 / sz_bot 1.460), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Tigers ultimately won the contest, 7-5.

This is Lance Barrett (94)'s first ejection of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Lance Barrett now has 6 points in the UEFL Standings (2 Previous + 2 MLB + 2 Correct Call = 6).
Crew Chief Dana DeMuth now has 4 points in the UEFL's Crew Division (3 Prev + 1 Correct = 4).

This is the 10th ejection of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 5th player ejection of 2014. Prior to his ejection, Kipnis was 0-2 in the contest (4 LOB).
This is the Indians' 1st ejection of 2014, T-1st in the AL Central (CLE, KC 1; DET, CWS, MIN 0).
This is Jason Kipnis' first career MLB ejection.
This is Lance Barrett's first ejection since August 25, 2012 (AJ Pierzynski/Robin Ventura; QOC = U).

Wrap: Cleveland Indians vs. Detroit Tigers, 4/17/14
Video: Kipnis dumped by Barrett after excessively arguing his strikeout in the third inning (CLE)

MLB Instant Replay Review 103: Bill Welke (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 2B Umpire Bill Welke's safe cal in the top of the 5th inning of the Braves-Phillies game. With none out and one on, HP Umpire Jim Wolf called Braves batter Gerald Laird out on a 1-2 knuckle curve from Phillies pitcher A.J. Burnett for strike three, catcher Will Nieves to shortstop Jimmy Rollins as Braves baserunner Andrelton Simmons attempted to steal second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Phillies Manager Ryne Sandberg, Welke's ruling that Rollins did not tag Simmons while Simmons was off his base was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Phillies ultimately won the contest, 1-0.

This is Bill Welke (52)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Bill Welke is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Brian Gorman's crew is now 3/4 (.750 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 103rd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Phillies Manager Ryne Sandberg is now 2/4 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 66/102 (.641 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Atlanta Braves vs. Philadelphia Phillies, 4/17/14
Video: Play overturned; Braves lose their lead runner after review grants a double play (PHI)

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

MLB Instant Replay Review 102: Tim Timmons (02)

Instant Replay Review upheld HP Umpire Tim Timmons' HBP call in the bottom of the 7th inning of the Athletics-Angels game. With none out and none on, Angels batter Chris Iannetta took a 1-2 curveball from A's pitcher Tommy Milone for a hit by pitch. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Athletics Manager Bob Melvin, Timmons' ruling that the pitch in the dirt hit Iannetta's left foot was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the A's were leading, 4-1. The Angels ultimately won the contest, 5-4, in 12 innings.

This is Tim Timmons (95)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Tim Timmons is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Tim Welke's crew is now 6/6 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 102nd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Athletics Manager Bob Melvin is now 1/9 (.111 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 66/102 (.647 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Oakland Athletics vs. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, 4/16/14
Video: Play stands; Replay Officials confirm hit-by-pitch ruling to put Iannetta on base (OAK)

MLB Instant Replay Review 101: CB Bucknor (02)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire CB Bucknor's safe call in the top of the 9th inning of the Royals-Astros game. With none out and none on, Royals batter Lorenzo Cain hit a 0-2 curveball from Astros pitcher Josh Fields on the ground to shortstop Marwin Gonzalez, who threw to first baseman Jesus Guzman as Cain arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Astros Manager Bo Porter, Bucknor's ruling that Guzman did not catch the ball and tag first base prior to Cain's arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 4-4. The Royals ultimately won the contest, 6-4, in 11 innings.

This is CB Bucknor (54)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
CB Bucknor is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Dale Scott's crew is now 1/3 (.333 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 101st Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Astros Manager Bo Porter is now 2/3 (.667 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 65/101 (.644 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Kansas City Royals vs. Houston Astros, 4/16/14
Video: Play overturned; Astros get a ninth inning out thanks to Porter's timely challenge (HOU)

MLB Instant Replay Review 100: Seth Buckminster (03)

Instant Replay Review upheld 1B Umpire Seth Buckminster's out call in the top of the 2nd inning of the Dodgers-Giants game. With one out and one on, Giants pitcher Ryan Vogelsong threw to first baseman Brandon Belt in an attempt to pick off Dodgers baserunner R1 Matt Kemp, Belt's glove swiping onto Kemp's arm as Kemp's hand retouched first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Dodgers Manager Don Mattingly, Buckminster's ruling that Belt successfully caught the ball and tagged Kemp with his glove prior to Kemp's return to and while he was off first base was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Giants ultimately won the contest, 2-1.

This is Seth Buckminster (67)'s third Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Seth Buckminster is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Mike Winters' crew is now 4/9 (.444 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 100th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Dodgers Manager Don Mattingly is now 0/2 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 65/100 (.650 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Los Angeles Dodgers vs. San Francisco Giants, 4/16/14
Video: Play stands; Kemp picked off 1st after Dodgers' unsuccessful 2nd inning challenge (LAD)

MLB Ejection 009: Fieldin Culbreth (1; Chris Bosio)

HP Umpire Fieldin Culbreth ejected Cubs Pitching Coach Chris Bosio for arguing a ball three call in the bottom of the 7th inning of the Cubs-Yankees game. With one out and two on, Yankees batter Jacoby Ellsbury took a 2-2 fastball from Cubs pitcher Zac Rosscup for a called third ball. Replays indicate the pitch was located over the outer half of home plate and below the hollow of the knee (px -.342, pz 1.556 / sz_bot 1.580), the call was correct. At the time of the ejection, the Yankees were leading, 2-0. The Yankees ultimately won the contest, 2-0.

This is Fieldin Culbreth (42)'s first ejection of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Fieldin Culbreth now has 4 points in the UEFL Standings (0 Previous + 2 MLB + 2 Correct Call = 4).
Crew Chief Fieldin Culbreth now has 2 points in the UEFL's Crew Division (6 Prev + 1 Correct = 7).

This is the 9th ejection of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
This is the Cubs' 2nd ejection of 2014, 1st in the NL Central (CHC 2; STL 1; CIN, MIL, PIT 0).
This is Chris Bosio's first ejection since June 17, 2003 (Alfonso Marquez; QOC = U).*Also a DH EJ*
This is Fieldin Culbreth's first ejection since August 21, 2012 (Terry Collins; QOC = Y).

Wrap: Chicago Cubs vs. New York Yankees (Jackie Robinson Day Tribute), 4/16/14
Video: Cubby ejects Bosio for arguing balls and in the Cubs-Yanks nightcap (CHC)

MLB Instant Replay Review 099: Lance Barrett (02)

Instant Replay Review upheld 1B Umpire Lance Barrett's safe call in the bottom of the 8th inning of the Indians-Tigers game. With none out and one on, Tigers batter Ian Kinsler bunted a 1-1 curveball from Indians pitcher Cody Allen on the ground to third baseman Lonnie Chisenhall, who threw to first baseman Nick Swisher as Kinsler arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Indians Manager Terry Francona, Barrett's ruling that Swisher did not catch the ball and tag first base prior to Kinsler's touch arrivals was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Indians were leading, 3-1. The Indians ultimately won the contest, 3-2.

This is Lance Barrett (94)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Lance Barrett is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Dana DeMuth's crew is now 4/5 (.800 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 99th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Indians Manager Terry Francona is now 2/6 (.333 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 64/99 (.646 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Cleveland Indians vs. Detroit Tigers, 4/16/14
Video: Play stands; Barrett's call is upheld after replay doesn't discover clear evidence otherwise (CLE)

MLB Instant Replay Review 098: Rob Drake (01)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 1B Umpire Rob Drake's HR call in the top of the 6th inning of the Nationals-Marlins game. With two out and two on, Nationals batter Jayson Werth hit a 0-1 fastball from Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez in the air to deep right-center field, where the descending fly ball made contact with a fan at or near the boundary atop the outfield wall. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Marlins Manager Mike Redmond and initiation by Crew Chief Joe West, Drake's ruling that the ball cleared the playing field in flight and was not subject to spectator interference upon its exit was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 3-3. The Nationals ultimately won the contest, 6-3.

This is Rob Drake (30)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Rob Drake is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Joe West's crew is now 3/5 (.600 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 98th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Marlins Manager Mike Redmond is now 1/5 (.200 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 63/98 (.643 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Washington Nationals vs. Miami Marlins, 4/16/14
Video: Play stands; Home run confirmed when fan interference over playing area is ruled out (WAS)

Rule 6.08(c): To Accept or Decline Catcher's Interference

Yankees Manager Joe Girardi declined an interference penalty during the Cubs-Yankees game in New York Wednesday afternoon, putting into play the rarely seen catcher's interference rule wherein the team elects to accept the play in lieu of the interference base award.

Classic CI: Ellsbury's bat hits Baker's glove.
While Yankees play-by-play man Michael Kay stated, "Now they're saying that Gardiner is going to score!...They're saying that Ellsbury is out?" before defeatedly admitting, "I'm lost...I don't know what just happened, I'm not going to try and fake it here—I have no idea," Cubs broadcasters Len Kasper and Jim Deshaies sat in momentary silence and listened to home plate umpire Jim Reynolds, who was wearing a microphone as he discussed the play with Girardi. Only then did Kasper conclude, "He'll take the run instead of the base, something you don't see that often." Added Deshaies, "If you've got a chance to take the run, then absolutely."

In the 5th inning, with one out and one runner on third base, Yankees batter Jacoby Ellsbury hit a 0-0 curveball from Cubs pitcher Jason Hammel softly on the ground to Hammel, who tagged Ellsbury as he ran towards first base and R3 Brett Gardner jogged through home plate; however, Ellsbury's bat had been impeded by Cubs catcher John Baker's glove, the contact qualifying as catcher's interference as defined by Rule 2.00 [Interference], which states, "Defensive interference is an act by a fielder that hinders or prevents a batter from hitting a pitch." The most common defensive interference is catcher's interference wherein a catcher's glove prevents a hitter's bat from completing its natural swing.

Fortunately, to avoid confusion, the Major League Baseball Playing Rules Committee in 2013 deleted the last sentence of Rule 2.00, which at the time stated, "On any interference the ball is dead." As the Committee noted in its Summary of Rule Changes for 2013, deleting this sentence was necessary in order to account for cases where interference does not result in an immediate dead ball. Among the examples listed was catcher's interference.

That brings us to Wednesday at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, where the Baker-Ellsbury catcher's interference penalty would have awarded B1 Ellsbury first base while sending R3 Gardner back to third base with one out (catcher's interference, where the penalty is accepted, is a dead ball).

Instead, Girardi wanted his run and sacrificed Ellsbury to get it—by declining the penalty, Girardi elected to take the play: B1 Ellsbury out on the unassisted putout to the pitcher and R3 Gardner safe at home, the RBI to Ellsbury. Two out.

Catcher's Interference is the rare instance where a managers are empowered to make a decision like their football coaching counterparts—to accept or decline the penalty. Rule 6.08(c):
[The batter becomes a runner and is entitled to first base without liability to be put out (provided he advances to and touches first base when] the catcher or any fielder interferes with him. If a play follows the interference, the manager of the offense may advise the plate umpire that he elects to decline the interference penalty and accept the play. Such election shall be made immediately at the end of the play. However, if the batter reaches first base on a hit, an error, a base on balls, a hit batsman, or otherwise, and all other runners advance at least one base, the play proceeds without reference to the interference.
Rule 6.08(c) Comment addresses the specific case of a manager declining the interference penalty and accordingly instructs the umpire to keep the play alive, akin to how Obstruction B does not immediately kill the play: "If catcher’s interference is called with a play in progress the umpire will allow the play to continue because the manager may elect to take the play."

Notice plate umpire Reynolds allowed the play to continue through to its completion (though he almost came close to killing it prematurely), which provided Girardi with the opportunity to weigh his options and then strategically decide to decline the interference and accept the play as is.

Video: Catcher's interference penalty is declined as Girardi prefers his Yankees score the run (NYY)

Major League Umpiring Debut: Tom Woodring (75)

Umpire Tom Woodring made his MLB debut during the Cubs-Yankees game in New York on April 16. Woodring joined chief Jim Reynolds' crew, serving as Wednesday's third base umpire during Game 1 of the Cubs-Yankees doubleheader alongside 2B Umpire Sean Barber, 1B Umpire Manny Gonzalez and home plate umpire Reynolds. Barber made his debut in San Diego on March 30.

Woodring is on the Pacific Coast League umpire roster for the 2014 season, which is his second season in the PCL and AAA. Woodring began his career in Minor League Baseball in 2007's Gulf Coast League and worked the California and Eastern Leagues before his promotion to Triple-A. He worked the 2012 All-Star Futures Game and 2012 Arizona Fall League.

Woodring resides in Boulder, Nevada and wears the sleeve uniform number 75, last worn by Chad Fairchild, at the Major League level. The 6-foot-3, 215-pound Woodring, who makes his MLB debut at the age of 31, is an alum of Santa Barbara City College and volunteered as a baseball coach at his high school alma mater, Foothill High School located in Henderson, NV. He serves as head baseball instructor at the Las Vegas Baseball Academy.

MLB Instant Replay Reviews 96|97: Manny Gonzalez (2, 3)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Manny Gonzalez's out call in the top of the 2nd and confirmed Gonzalez's out call in the top of the 7th inning of the Cubs-Yankees game. In the 2nd, with one out and none on, Cubs batter Junior Lake hit a 2-1 sinker from Yankees pitcher Masahiro Tanaka on the ground to Tanaka, who threw to first baseman Kelly Johnson as Lake arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Cubs Manager Rick Renteria, Gonzalez's ruling that Johnson caught the ball and tagged first base ahead of Lake's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Yankees were leading, 1-0.

In the 7th, with none out and one on, Cubs batter Nate Schierholtz hit a 2-2 sinker from Yankees pitcher Tanaka on the ground to Tanaka, deflected to shortstop Dean Anna who threw to first baseman Johnson as Schierholtz arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Cubs Manager Rick Renteria, Gonzalez's ruling that Johnson caught the threw and tagged first base prior to Schierholtz's arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Yankees were leading, 3-0. The Yankees ultimately won the contest, 3-0.

These are Manny Gonzalez (79)'s second and third Instant Replay Reviews of 2014.
Manny Gonzalez is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Jim Reynolds' crew is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

These are the 96th and 97th Instant Replay Reviews of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Cubs Manager Rick Renteria is now 4/9 (.444 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 62/97 (.639 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Chicago Cubs vs. New York Yankees, 4/16/14
Video: Play overturned; Junior Lake is placed on first base following review and reversal (CHC)
Video: Play stands; Yankees complete 1-6-3 putout on a confirmed call in the 7th (CHC)

MLB Replay Reviews 94|95: G Davis, Q Wolcott (2, 4)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Gerry Davis' out call in the top of the 5th and confirmed HP Umpire Quinn Wolcott's Rule 7.13 violation no-call (runner out) in the bottom of the 8th inning of the Pirates-Reds game. In the 5th, with two out and none on, Pirates batter Jordy Mercer hit a 2-1 cutter from Reds pitcher Johnny Cueto on the ground to second baseman Brandon Phillips, who threw to first baseman Joey Votto as Mercer arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle, Davis' ruling that Votto caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Mercer's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Reds were leading, 1-0.

In the 8th, with one out and two on, Reds batter Zack Cozart hit a 1-0 fastball from Pirates pitcher Stolmy Pimentel on the ground to shortstop Mercer, who threw to catcher Tony Sanchez as Reds baserunner R3 Roger Bernadina arrived at home plate. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Reds Manager Bryan Price and initiation by Crew Chief Gerry Davis, Wolcott's ruling that Sanchez did not violate the anti-collision Rule 7.13 and legally possessed the ball and applied his tag to Bernadina was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Reds were leading, 4-0. The Reds ultimately won the contest, 4-0.

This is Gerry Davis (12)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
This is Quinn Wolcott (81)'s fourth Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Gerry Davis is now 0/2 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Quinn Wolcott is now 3/4 (.750 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Gerry Davis' crew is now 6/10 (.600 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

These are the 94th and 95th Instant Replay Reviews of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle is now 3/5 (.600 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Reds Manager Bryan Price is now 2/4 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 61/95 (.642 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Cincinnati Reds, 4/16/14
Video: Play overturned; Out call at first base is reversed as replay determines runner was safe (PIT)
Video: Play stands; Out is confirmed with no illegal block of home without the ball detected (PIT)

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

MLB Instant Replay Review 093: Andy Fletcher (01)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Andy Fletcher's out call in the bottom of the 10th inning of the Dodgers-Giants game. With none out and none on, Giants batter Gregor Blanco bunted a 1-1 curveball from Dodgers pitcher Jamey Wright on the ground to Wright, who threw to first baseman Adrian Gonzalez as Blanco arrived at first base via a head-first slide. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Giants Manager Bruce Bochy, Fletcher's ruling that Gonzalez caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Blanco's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 2-2. The Giants ultimately won the contest, 3-2, in 12 innings.

This is Andy Fletcher (42)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Andy Fletcher is now 0/1 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Mike Winters' crew is now 3/8 (.375 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 93rd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Giants Manager Bruce Bochy is now 1/2 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 60/93 (.645 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Los Angeles Dodgers vs. San Francisco Giants (Jackie Robinson Day), 4/15/14
Video: Play overturned; Giants get the winning run on base after review overturns the call (SF)

MLB Ejection 008: Jeff Nelson (2; Phil Plantier)

HP Umpire Jeff Nelson ejected Padres Hitting Coach Phil Plantier for arguing balk no-calls (Unsportsmanlike-NEC: Late Argument) in the bottom of the 5th inning of the Rockies-Padres game. With two out and one on, with Padres batter Alexi Amarista at bat, Rockies pitcher Juan Nicasio unsuccessfully attempted to pick off Padres baserunner R1 Will Venable on two separate occasions before Venable was caught stealing second base, (called out by 2B Umpire Laz Diaz). Plantier was ejected following the inning for arguing two separate balk no-calls on Nicasio's pickoffs, the call was irrecusable.* At the time of the ejection, the Rockies were leading, 3-2. The Rockies ultimately won the contest, 3-2.

This is Jeff Nelson (42)'s second ejection of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Jeff Nelson now has 6 points in the UEFL Standings (4 Previous + 2 MLB + 0 Irrecusable Call = 6).
Crew Chief Jeff Nelson now has 2 points in the UEFL's Crew Division (1 Prev + 1 Irrecusable = 2).
*Pursuant to UEFL Rule 6-5-c, Quality of Correctness only applies to the call made directly prior to ejection. Because the balk no-calls in question occurred prior to the pitch that directly preceded ejection, this ejection is irrecusable. This ejection is not eligible for a Post-Inning Exemption as the "one specific call" criterion cannot be satisfied when a coach counts multiple perceived missed calls (multiple plays as opposed to one specific call).
Prop Prediction 1-2: Date of First Ejection of non-player/non-manager: Winner: Arik G (4/15/14).

This is the 8th ejection of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
This is the Padres' 1st ejection of 2014, 1st in the NL West (SD 1; ARI, COL, LAD, SF 0).
This is Phil Plantier's first ejection since July 24, 1994 (Steve Rippley; QOC = U).
This is Jeff Nelson's first ejection since April 8, 2014 (Rick Renteria; QOC = Y).

Wrap: Colorado Rockies vs. San Diego Padres (Jackie Robinson Day), 4/15/14
Video: #42 Plantier barks and counts after inning's end, drawing an ejection from #42 Nelson (SD)

MLB Instant Replay Review 092: Mike DiMuro (02)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Mike DiMuro's out call in the bottom of the 5th inning of the Mets-Diamondbacks game. With one out and one on, Diamondbacks batter A.J. Pollock hit a 0-1 slider from Mets pitcher Jenrry Mejia on the ground to third baseman David Wright, who threw to first baseman Lucas Duda as Pollock arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Diamondbacks Manager Kirk Gibson, DiMuro's ruling that Duda caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Pollock's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Mets were leading, 9-0. The Mets ultimately won the contest, 9-0.

This is Mike DiMuro (42)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Mike DiMuro is now 0/2 (.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Jerry Layne's crew is now 6/10 (.600 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 92nd Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Diamondbacks Manager Kirk Gibson is now 1/2 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 60/92 (.652 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: New York Mets vs. Arizona Diamondbacks (Jackie Robinson Day), 4/15/14
Video: Play overturned; Diamondbacks get an infield single as review reverses DiMuro's call (ARI)

MLB Instant Replay Review 091: Cory Blaser (02)

Instant Replay Review upheld 1B Umpire Cory Blaser's out call in the bottom of the 2nd inning of the Red Sox-White Sox game. With none out and none on, White Sox batter Jose Abreu hit a 3-2 curveball from Red Sox pitcher Jake Peavy on the ground to shortstop Xander Bogaerts, who threw to first baseman Mike Napoli as Abreu arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by White Sox Manager Robin Ventura, Blaser's ruling that Napoli caught the ball and tagged first base ahead of Abreu's touch arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The White Sox ultimately won the contest, 2-1, on a bot 9 walk-off.

This is Cory Blaser (42)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Cory Blaser is now 1/2 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Jim Joyce's crew is now 2/4 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 91st Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
White Sox Manager Robin Ventura is now 0/3 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 60/91 (.659 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Boston Red Sox vs. Chicago White Sox (Jackie Robinson Day), 4/15/14
Video: Play stands; White Sox lose challenge as replay doesn't find a pulled foot at first (CWS)

MLB Instant Replay Review 090: Quinn Wolcott (03)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Quinn Wolcott's out call in the top of the 8th inning of the Pirates-Reds game. With none out and one on, Pirates batter Pedro Alvarez hit a 1-2 curveball from Reds pitcher Manny Parra on the ground to first baseman Joey Votto, who threw to shortstop Zack Cozart to Parra, covering, as Alvarez arrived at first base, Pirates baserunner R1 Andrew McCutchen out at second. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle, Wolcott's ruling that Parra caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Alvarez's touch arrival was reversed, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Reds were leading, 7-3. The Reds ultimately won the contest, 7-5.

This is Quinn Wolcott (42)'s third Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Quinn Wolcott is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Gerry Davis' crew is now 5/8 (.625 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 90th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Pirates Manager Clint Hurdle is now 2/4 (.500 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 59/90 (.656 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Cincinnati Reds (Jackie Robinson Day, "Game 2"), 4/15/14
Video: Play overturned; Pirates' challenge removes the out at first and preserves the FC (PIT)

Major League Umpiring Debut: Chris Segal (96)

Umpire Chris Segal made his MLB debut during the Mariners-Angels game in Anaheim on April 14. Segal joined chief Tim Welke's crew, serving as Monday night's first base umpire alongside 3B Umpire Todd Tichenor, 2B Umpire Tim Timmons and home plate umpire Welke. He was tested right out of the gate as Instant Replay Review upheld his ninth-inning out call.

Segal is on the Pacific Coast League umpire roster for the 2014 season, which is his fourth season in the PCL and AAA. Segal graduated with honors from the Jim Evans Academy of Professional Umpiring in 2006 and began his career with Minor League Baseball in the Appalachian League (worked the Championship Series), with service in the South Atlantic, Florida Instructional and Southern Leagues along the way, having been selected to officiate the 2013 World Baseball Classic Qualifiers, during which he ejected Team Israel catcher Charles Cutler.

Segal resides in Burke, VA and wears the sleeve uniform number 96 at the Major League level. The 6-foot-1, 210-pound Segal, who makes his MLB debut at the age of 31, is an alum of St. Mary's College of Maryland ('05), where he was a four-year starter and captain in the baseball program. Segal officiated the Arizona Fall League Rising Stars game in 2012.

Monday, April 14, 2014

Replay & Ejection: Schrieber, Barrett (3, 1; Ron Washington)

2B Umpire Ted Barrett ejected Rangers Manager Ron Washington for arguing a Replay Review decision in which Instant Replay Review overturned HP Umpire Paul Schrieber's out call in the top of the 6th inning of the Mariners-Rangers game. With one out and three on, Mariners batter Brad Miller hit a 0-0 sinker from Rangers pitcher Pedro Figueroa on the ground back to Figueroa, who threw to catcher J.P. Arencibia as Mariners baserunner R3 Dustin Ackley slid into home plate. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Mariners Manager Lloyd McClendon, Schrieber's ruling that Arencibia legally caught and possessed the ball and tagged home plate was reversed, the call was incorrect. Pursuant to UEFL Rule 6-2-b-7, the Quality of Correctness component for Barrett's ejection of Washington, which occurred after the announced Replay Review decision of overturn (safe), is "correct," as the call after challenge/review (safe) was correct. At the time of the review, the Mariners were leading, 5-0. At the time of the ejection, the Mariners were leading, 6-0. The Mariners ultimately won the contest, 7-1.

This is Paul Schrieber (43)'s third Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB season.
This is Ted Barrett (65)'s first ejection of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Paul Schrieber is now 1/3 (.333 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Ted Barrett now has 4 points in the UEFL Standings (1 Previous + 2 MLB + 1 Correct [Crew] = 4).
Crew Chief Ted Barrett's Crew is now 2/5 (.400 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Crew Chief Ted Barrett now has 0 points in UEFL's Crew Division (-1 Previous + 1 Correct = 0).

This is the 89th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 7th ejection of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 3rd Manager ejection of 2014.
Mariners Manager Lloyd McClendon is now 2/4 (.500 Success) in Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 59/89 (.663 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.
This is the Rangers' 2nd ejection of 2014, 1st in the AL West (TEX 2; HOU, LAA, OAK, SEA 0).
This is Ron Washington's first ejection since April 29, 2012 (Dan Bellino; QOC = N).
This is Ted Barrett's first ejection since August 22, 2013 (Mark Buehrle; QOC = N [crewmate]).

Wrap: Seattle Mariners vs. Texas Rangers, 4/14/14
Video: Play Overturned; Seattle challenges new catch/transfer interpretation and wins a run (SEA)
Video: Like Farrell on Sunday, Ron Washington is ejected arguing the overturned replay (TEX)

MLB Ejection 006: Bob Davidson (2; Matt Carpenter)

HP Umpire Bob Davidson ejected Cardinals 3B Matt Carpenter for arguing a strike three call in the top of the 5th inning of the Cardinals-Brewers game. With one out and none on, Carpenter took a 0-2 fastball from Brewers pitcher Matt Garza for a called third strike. Replays indicate the pitch was located belt high and off the outer edge of home plate (px -1.238, pz 2.25), the call was incorrect. At the time of the ejection, the Cardinals were leading, 1-0. The Cardinals ultimately won the contest, 4-0.

This is Bob Davidson (61)'s second ejection of 2014.
Bob Davidson now has 3 points in the UEFL Standings (5 Previous + 2 MLB + -4 Incorrect Call = 3).
Crew Chief Jeff Kellogg now has 1 point in UEFL's Crew Division (1 Previous + 0 Incorrect = 1).

This is the 6th ejection of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
This is the 4th player ejection of 2014. Prior to his ejection, Carpenter was 0-2 in the contest.
This is the Cardinals' 1st ejection of 2014, T-1st in the NL Central (CHC, STL 1; CIN, MIL, PIT 0).
This is Matt Carpenter's first career MLB ejection.
This is Bob Davidson's first ejection since yesterday, April 13, 2014 (John Farrell; QOC = Y).

Wrap: St. Louis Cardinals vs. Milwaukee Brewers, 4/14/14
Video: Davidson chucks Carpenter for arguing balls and strikes after a fifth-inning strikeout (STL)

MLB Instant Replay Review 088: Chris Segal (01)

Instant Replay Review upheld 1B Umpire Chris Segal's out call in the bottom of the 9th inning of the Athletics-Angels game. With one out and none on, Angels batter Howie Kendrick hit a 1-2 changeup from A's pitcher Luke Gregerson on the ground to second baseman Nick Punto, who threw to first baseman Daric Barton as Kendrick arrived at first base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Angels Manager Mike Scioscia, Segal's ruling that Barton caught the ball and tagged first base prior to Kendrick's arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the A's were leading, 3-2. The A's ultimately won the contest, 3-2.

This is Chris Segal (96)'s first Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Chris Segal is now 1/1 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Tim Welke's crew is now 5/5 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 88th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Angels Manager Mike Scioscia is now 0/4 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 59/88 (.670 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Oakland Athletics vs. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, 4/14/14
Video: Play stands; Last-inning review for the Angels denied as replay keeps Kendrick off the bases (LAA)

MLB Instant Replay Review 087: Clint Fagan (02)

Instant Replay Review confirmed 2B Umpire Clint Fagan's no HR (live ball) call in the top of the 1st inning of the Nationals-Marlins game. With two out and none on, Nationals batter Jayson Werth hit a 1-2 fastball from Marlins pitcher Brad Hand in the air to deep left-center field and off the top of the wall. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a request by Nationals Manager Matt Williams and initiation by Crew Chief Joe West, Fagan's ruling that the ball hit the wall and remained in the field of play was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the contest was tied, 0-0. The Nationals ultimately won the contest, 9-2.

This is Clint Fagan (82)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Clint Fagan is now 2/2 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Joe West's crew is now 2/4 (.500 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 87th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Nationals Manager Matt Williams is now 0/5 (.000 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 58/87 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Washington Nationals vs. Miami Marlins, 4/14/14
Video: Play stands; Boundary review confirms that Werth's deep drive never left the field (WAS)

MLB Instant Replay Review 086: Brian Knight (03)

Instant Replay Review overturned 1B Umpire Brian Knight's foul ball call in the bottom of the 4th inning of the Pirates-Reds game. With one out and none on, Reds batter Todd Frazier hit a 0-0 fastball from Pirates pitcher Wandy Rodriguez in the air down the right field line, where it struck right fielder Travis Snider in the face. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Reds Manager Bryan Price, Knight's ruling that Snider initially contacted the ball while it was positioned in foul territory was reversed and BR Frazier was placed at second base, the call was incorrect. At the time of the review, the Pirates were leading, 3-2. The game was suspended with the Pirates ultimately winning, 8-7.

This is Brian Knight (91)'s third Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Brian Knight is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Gerry Davis' crew is now 5/7 (.714 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 86th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Reds Manager Bryan Price is now 1/3 (.333 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 57/86 (.663 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Cincinnati Reds (Suspended Game to 4/15), 4/14/14
Video: Play overturned; Knight's ruling of "foul ball" is overturned and the runner is placed (CIN)

MLB Instant Replay Review 085: Greg Gibson (03)

Instant Replay Review upheld 1B Umpire Greg Gibson's safe call in the bottom of the 5th inning of the Rays-Orioles game. With one out and two on, Orioles batter Steve Lombardozzi hit a 1-0 fastball from Rays pitcher Chris Archer on the ground to second baseman Ben Zobrist, who threw to shortstop Yunel Escobar to first baseman James Loney as Lombardozzi arrived at first base, Orioles baserunner R1 J.J. Hardy out at second base. Upon Instant Replay Review as the result of a challenge by Rays Manager Joe Maddon, Gibson's ruling that Loney did not legally catch and tag first base prior to Lombardozzi's touch arrival was affirmed, the call was correct. At the time of the review, the Orioles were leading, 6-0. The Orioles ultimately won the contest, 7-1.

This is Greg Gibson (53)'s second Instant Replay Review of 2014.
Greg Gibson is now 2/3 (.667 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.
Crew Chief Bill Miller's crew is now 6/6 (1.000 Affirmation Rate) in Replay Reviews in 2014.

This is the 85th Instant Replay Review of the 2014 MLB Regular Season.
Rays Manager Joe Maddon is now 2/6 (.333 Success) in Instant Replay Reviews during 2014.
Umpires are now 57/85 (.671 Affirmation Rate) in Instant Replay Reviews during the 2014 MLB season.

Wrap: Tampa Bay Rays vs. Baltimore Orioles, 4/14/14
Video: Play stands; Orioles beat out the double play call, a decision upheld after replay review (TB)

MLB Instant Replay Review Statistics: Week 2 Sabermetrics

Instant Replay Review Statistics and Sabermetrics are now available for MLB Week 2. As the numbers and trends begin to form, Close Call Sports and the Umpire Ejection Fantasy League continues with the strategic statistics reporting, or what may be the first measure of umpire-centric sabermetrics in professional baseball. First, some key terms:

Review Affirmation Percentage (RAP): The percent of Replay Reviews in which an umpire's call is confirmed or upheld (stands). For instance, a RAP of .750 for n=4 indicates that three calls were affirmed (confirmed/stands) via Replay Review while the other was reversed (overturned). A higher figure (trending towards 1.000) indicates greater calling accuracy; a lower figure (trending towards .000) indicates a greater real-time call error rate. Also known as QOC (Quality of Correctness).

Replay Percentage of Success (RPS): The percent of Replay Reviews in which a ball club and/or its Manager receives an overturned call that benefits the team. Includes both Crew Chief Reviews (initiated by the umpires) and Manager's Challenges (initiated by the teams). For instance, RPS of .333 for n=3 indicates that two calls were affirmed (confirmed/stands) via Replay Review while the other was reversed (overturned). Alternatively, 1.000 - RAP = RPS.

Manager's Challenge Success Percentage (CSP): A subset of RPS, this statistic considers just those Replay Reviews that were effected as the result of a Manager's Challenge. For both RPS and CSP, a higher number (1.000) indicates greater success in the Replay Review process; a lower figure (.000) indicates less successful outcomes.

With Week 2 of the MLB Regular Season in the books, the UEFL recaps professional baseball's "this time it counts" living experiment with Instant Replay Reviews. Bearing in mind that with n=84, our sample size is relatively small and unreliable, here, combined with Wk 1, are the "early returns" numbers:

Key bullet points:
"Team Most Used" (Made use of Replay Review most often): Oakland Athletics - 8.
"Manager's Challenge Leaders" (Most challenges filed): T Francona, B Ausmus, J Gibbons - 4.
"Most successful Manager" (Manager with highest CSP): F Gonzalez, T Collins - 1.000 in 2/2.
"Least successful Manager" (Manager with lowest CSP): J Gibbons - .000 in 0/4.
"Umpire most questioned" (Ump with most Replay Reviews): Bob Davidson - 5 (.600 RAP).
"Most accurate umpire" (Umpire with greatest RAP): Vic Carapazza, Jim Reynolds - 1.000 RAP in 3/3.
"Umpire of greatest overturn %" (Umpire with lowest RAP): [11 Tied] - .000 RAP in 0/1.
"Overall affirmation or QOC percentage" (Overall RAP): .667 (56/84 Affirmed Replay Reviews).
Team Status Pre-Review (Winning or Losing prior to review [Win-Loss-Tied]): 31-24-29.
Team Status Post-Review (Won or Lost the game [Wins-Losses]): 42-42. (Delta: 11-18; WPCT: .379).

Actual data: